UKZN Empowers Visually-Impaired Students Towards Independence With AI Glasses

Photo Credit: Marta Branco via Pexels

The University of KwaZulu-Natal has become the first SA university to take a pioneering step towards helping visually impaired students engage more actively in university life, from reading timetables to confidently navigating campus independently with smart AI glasses.

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (15 July 2025) – We’re living in a tech-driven era, where every day brings forth groundbreaking innovations that redefine our lives.

One of the most exciting advancements of our time is the Envision Smart AI Glasses, and the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has made history by becoming the first university in South Africa to gift these amazing glasses to five visually-impaired students!

Bright Sello, Thandeka Ngcobo, Londiwe Ndaba, Siboniso Mabuza, and Thembisa Xolo were the fortunate students who recently stepped into a world of enhanced possibilities. Thanks to the UKZN Foundation’s initiative to equip the University’s Disability Support Unit (DSU) with these innovative devices, navigating their academic journey will be easier and more convenient than ever before.

According to the University, the glasses use AI to assist blind and visually-impaired users with the ability to read printed and digital text, recognise faces, navigate environments and access real-time descriptions of their surroundings – all through discreet audio feedback.

Changing lives one pair of AI glasses at a time

UKZN implemented a comprehensive selection process to ensure that the glasses were awarded to students who would benefit most.

For a fourth-year student like Bright Sello, who previously faced significant challenges in lectures, these glasses are a game-changer, offering a newfound sense of control and independence.

“For the first time, I feel like I won’t be left behind. I can do things on my own – read my notes, follow slides in lectures and recognise my friends. I finally have control,” he said emotionally.

“I often sat in class unable to follow because I couldn’t read the screen or see what the lecturer was pointing to. I relied heavily on classmates or tutors after hours, which made me feel like I was always behind,” Sello said.

The introduction of the glasses marks a turning point in his academic journey.

“Now I won’t have to depend on others all the time. It’s not just about seeing the material – it’s about regaining my independence, dignity and confidence to fully participate in my education.”

A groundbreaking moment in SA education

Head of the University’s Disability Support Unit, Amith Ramballie, said UKZN was proud to lead the way in implementing advanced assistive technology that speaks to the needs of the diverse student body.

“These glasses not only reflect our commitment to accessibility but also our belief in every student’s right to learn, grow and succeed independently.”

“This milestone is particularly significant because no other university in South Africa currently offers students access to this device. While wearable assistive technology has existed for years, previous models were often more expensive or lacked functionality and reliability,” said Ramballie.

The glasses feature a high-definition camera embedded in lightweight frames which captures visual data – be it a printed page, a street sign or a face – and AI algorithms process the information instantly. With support for over 60 languages, they provide real-time audio feedback through speakers near the ear, enabling users to read printed and digital text, recognise faces, navigate spaces and locate objects or people.

Equipping the students with these devices was not only to enhance educational outcomes but also to support broader personal growth and independence in university life.

“The impact of the glasses extends far beyond the classroom,” explained Ramballie.

“Imagine being able to read a timetable independently, confidently find your lecture venue or recognise your lecturer in a crowd. These simple yet powerful moments are now possible.

“The glasses also enable students to participate more actively in group projects and seminars. With tools like Ally, they can assist with real-time interpretation and engagement during fast-paced discussions.”

The future has just become a whole lot brighter for these students, and we’re excited to see them leading the way!